In 1979, St. John’s Church founded the soup kitchen with the leadership and service of Dot Wetzel, Arnita Dunlap, Thelma, Blanch and a few others. The first meal served on Saturdays was a breakfast of oatmeal, toast, and coffee.

A few years later, in 1985, Grace Bean assumed leadership of the soup kitchen. Driven by a deep compassion and a vision to serve everyone in need, Grace began each mealtime with the words, “God loves you, and so do we!” Though she lacked financial resources in the early years, Grace’s determination never wavered. She started fundraising within local churches and businesses, and 40 years later, her legacy continues. What began as one meal has grown into five nutritious meals served each week, plus a few additional meals throughout the month.

In 2015, St. John’s Soup Kitchen was renamed to Cecil and Grace Bean’s Soup Kitchen becoming its own 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. A year later, Grace and her husband, Cecil, retired, and the soup kitchen is now managed by its board and a managing director.

In Loving Memory of Grace and Cecil Bean

Grace and Cecil Bean are no longer with us, but their life, work, and legacy will live on through the continued work of the soup kitchen, where they served thousands of people, in the Norristown community, for more than 30 years. Grace passed away in 2020 at the age of 98, and Cecil passed away in 2021 at the age of 90.

One of the greatest joys in Grace’s life was feeding those who needed a little help, and Cecil was right by her side. No matter the person’s situation, Grace welcomed them into the soup kitchen, offering a kiss on the cheek, a warm hug, and prayer. Her motto, “God loves you, and so do we!” has and will forever inspire us all.

In memory of Grace and Cecil, please send donations to Cecil and Grace Bean’s Soup Kitchen, PO Box 6, Norristown, PA 19404.